2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
